How To Save Without Feeling Like You’re Saving

When it comes to saving money, being conscious that you are saving is what turns it into an ordeal for some people. The whole conscious act of skipping things to save money or not using as much as before mentally grates on some people. They feel boxed in. They feel deprived. Some even feel that they are cheating themselves.

If you feel this way, rest assured that it is all in your head. Just as much of the resistance you are feeling to saving comes from your mind, you can also take some steps to clear these out so you can focus on what is important. What is important is that you save enough money now so you can invest for your future.

It is all about eating dessert later so you can enjoy a better feast later. Sure, you can enjoy benefits now but what good will it do you if you have to suffer later? As adults, we can understand this concept. However, the kids in us are having a tough time.

Here are some tips on how you can save without feeling like you’re saving.

Focus on the end

When you are saving money, you have to focus on the rewards you’ll be enjoying later. As famous personal productivity guru and self-improvement expert Stephen Covey said: Begin with the end in mind. In other words, keep your eyes on the prize. Sure, you are having a tough time now but your reward will be great. Focus on the reward. Focus on not having to suffer during your retirement years. Focus on the freedom and leisure you will be enjoying later.

Get a reward from the process

Things are only unpleasant when we think that they are unpleasant. Instead of thinking that saving is a hassle, why don’t you turn it around? Look at the act of saving as a reward in of itself. How? Look at each time you save as a personal victory. Realize that saving is not easy and every time you achieve savings, you have won and overcome. Celebrate this victory mentally. Look at it as a challenge that has been successfully overcome. Notch several victories and keep going forward.

This is how you make the challenge fun instead of something to be feared and avoided. Turn it into a little personal contest within yourself. Ask yourself how far you’ll go and how long you can go. Keep pushing yourself.

Anum

Anum Yoon is the founder and editor of Current on Currency. She loves all things personal finance, which is why you'll find her work all over the PF blogosphere.